PRESTON North End manager Alan Irvine has spoken of his delight at capturing Blackburn Rovers defender Eddie Nolan on a three-and-a-half year deal.

The 20-year-old had been on loan at Deepdale and joins the Lilywhites for an undisclosed “six-figure fee.”

Irvine said: “I am really pleased. We signed Eddie on loan and hoped that it would become a permanent deal and it has done now. I think will see the promise and potential that Eddie has got.

“He has played in the first team earlier than I anticipated and he has done himself no harm whatsoever with his performances. It is important we have players who are versatile and adaptable and Eddie comes into that category.”

Nolan was also delighted to make his move a permanent one, he added: “I am very happy. I have loved my time here and I am looking forward to being here for at least the next three-and-a-half years.

“The back four have been playing well, so I probably got into the team a little sooner than expected.

"It is a good club to be at, with the team on a good run and long may it continue.”